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Report: Elliotte Friedman links Nikita Kucherov to the Red Wings as a possible fit

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman says a source believes Detroit could offer what Nikita Kucherov wants in a new team; no talks have been reported.

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Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman has linked Lightning star Nikita Kucherov to the Red Wings, saying on his 32 Thoughts podcast that a “person of significance” believes Detroit could give Kucherov the kind of roster he wants after his trade request. The report is unconfirmed. It does not describe any talks between Detroit and Tampa Bay or Kucherov’s camp, and the Red Wings have not commented.

According to the report, Kucherov is expected to weigh fit when choosing his next team. Friedman pointed to two pieces he had in Tampa: a one-timer threat like Steven Stamkos, a role Lucas Raymond could fill in Detroit, and a heavy shot from the point like Darren Raddysh’s, which Moritz Seider could supply. The Hockey News relayed the comments Monday.

Kucherov, 33, asked the Lightning for a trade late last week. General manager Julien BriseBois has said the team has no intention of trading him, and coach Jon Cooper said Saturday that Kucherov remains fully part of the team. Kucherov told reporters Monday that the request was not about money and cited poor communication and respect from the front office. He is in the last year of an eight-year contract with an average annual value of $9.5 million and can become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

The report lands while the Red Wings are working to trade their own captain. Dylan Larkin is suspended without pay after saying he will not play for Detroit again, and interim general manager Shawn Horcoff has said the team wants players who can help now in any return. The Red Wings and Lightning meet Tuesday night in Tampa.

Mitten Hockey’s preview of Tuesday’s game: Red Wings Game Preview: at Lightning (Nov. 3).

Sources

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